Ayushman Bharat to include Cancer, Alzheimer's and cardiac patients too: How to avail benefits?

The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana or AB-PMJAY, a health insurance initiative that provides financial protection for economically vulnerable families against the high costs of geriatric medical treatment, will soon include treatments for heart diseases, Alzheimer's, cancer and dementia also. The scheme, launched in 2018, has around 25 health packages now and will be adding more soon. It provides an annual health cover of Rs 5 lakh for hospitalisation and will soon include Ayurveda, unani, Siddha, homoeopathy, naturopathy and yoga treatments too. The Ministry of Ayush is expected to add 170 packages, covering the common cold to cancer. To avail of the scheme benefits, use the Ayushman Bharat card, an identification document issued under the scheme. Here's how to apply for the same:

1) Visit the official Ayushman Bharat portal  
2) Check eligibility by entering basic details.
3) Visit empanelled hospitals or Common Service Centers (CSCs) to apply for the card. 
4) Carry the required identification documents like an Aadhaar card or ration card to complete the application process.
Latest changes in eligibility for the Ayushman Card 
The government recently introduced several changes to the eligibility criteria for the Ayushman Card. The following are the key changes to the eligibility criteria: 
1. Inclusion of migrant workers 
They can apply in their current residence, ensuring they receive medical coverage even if they are far from their home state. 
2. Expansion of urban beneficiaries 
The updated criteria now include individuals working in informal sectors such as domestic help, daily wage earners, sanitation workers, and street vendors. 

3. Inclusion of vulnerable rural communities 
Landless labourers, rural artisans, and other low-income groups come under this category
4. Special provision for women and children 
Households led by widows or single women, orphaned children, and abandoned or disabled individuals are also given priority under the scheme now. 
5. Elderly and disabled individuals 
Those with chronic illnesses or disabilities often face higher medical costs, and the Ayushman Bharat scheme has recognised the need to provide these individuals with adequate healthcare coverage.